Stanford Halts California’s Four-Game Streak with 31-10 Win

STANFORD, Calif. (AP) — Jay Green and Darrius Davis returned fumbles for touchdowns, leading Stanford to a 31-10 victory over California on Saturday. This win ended the Cardinal’s four-game losing streak in the Big Game rivalry, marking their first victory over the Golden Bears since the 2020 season.

The match took place at Stanford Stadium, where 50,039 fans witnessed the Cardinal (4-7, 3-5 ACC) capitalize on three fumble recoveries and 13 penalties by the Bears (6-5, 3-4). Stanford’s last win in this rivalry at home was in 2017.

“It’s truly amazing,” linebacker Jahsia Galvan said, who played a key role in forcing a fumble that led to another touchdown. “To get a win and bring The Axe back to Stanford means the world to everyone.”

Under interim coach Frank Reich, the Cardinal improved their home record to 4-1 this season. Stanford took control late in the third quarter, scoring three times in just over seven minutes after initially trailing.

Emmet Kenney kicked a 36-yard field goal, followed quickly by Micah Ford‘s four-yard touchdown run after recovering a fumble from Cal quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele.

“We just shot ourselves in the foot way too many times,” said Cal coach Justin Wilcox, reflecting on his team’s performance. The Bears’ penalties and fumbles proved costly.

Stanford led 14-10 at halftime despite not scoring on offense. Green’s 49-yard fumble return opened the scoring in the second quarter, followed by Davis’s return for another touchdown just before the half.

Cal struggled, with penalties adding to their woes. They had a season-high 13 penalties for a total of 128 yards. Despite a promising outing against No. 14 Louisville the previous week, this defeat raises questions about Wilcox’s future as head coach.

“I understand the fans’ frustration,” Wilcox acknowledged. “We’re working hard, and we need to play better.”

The Cardinal’s offensive struggles were notable, as they recorded only 71 yards in the first half. However, their defense stepped up, securing the much-needed victory.

With this win, Stanford’s program is showing signs of improvement after struggling in recent seasons. The team is looking forward to hosting No. 9 Notre Dame next Saturday.